The Yelp! Category questions really can't fit this place. It's like trying to fit the proverbial 'quadrahelic block of unknown dimensions' into a surface without any obvious holes. They don't normally serve food, so you can bring your dog. Except tonight they're having a crawfish boil. Is it romantic? Not by my estimation, but there is always a couple kanoodling in the corner which is making the people holding a wake slightly uncomfortable. So why should you come? Three reasons: 1) the service. Bartenders that can meet a wide variety of expectations are hard to find. 2) the quality of the cocktails is hard to beat. It's so nice to have the Buffalo Trace Manhattan hit the bar without a word being said. 3) The price. Ten bucks for a top shelf Manhattan (I pray they don't read this) is such a bargain. I may be here in happy hour, but hey. One of B'ham's must sees. Please don't though, because as the song says, 'Everyone hates a tourist'. read more

Had some Monday night brewskis with the boys. Lou's is one of those places that is so casual and "locals only" that even as a local, I feel like a poser. This place is storied, I'm sure my parents drank here before I was even thought of. Birmingham legend spot. No beers on draft, I understand, means they have less dishes to do. But they have all the classic domestics and local beers you could want. Plus, they make great cocktails. The spicy marg here is unlike any other. Service is insane. On this Monday, we were treated like regulars. The man in charged asked us what kind of music we wanted on, "pourers choice," we said. He proceeded to play exactly what we wanted to hear, which included Forget You by CeeLo 3 times. The woman serving our table was awesome. "What can I get for you baby?" Suddenly, my Monday woes fell by the wayside. The couple of outdoor tables are a great spot to enjoy an evening in Birmingham. I haven't bought anything from here yet, but they seem to have any liquor you could want. read more

See all

I came here on a very busy Friday night! Crowd seemed kind of on the younger side... that's no problem but stood out to me. The guy I was with ordered us both a Makers mark & ginger to drink. It was nicely made and I enjoyed it. I didn't look at any of the package store items so I can't comment on this at all. The bartenders were nice and definitely working hard. I enjoyed my first ever visit to Lou's pub. I can see myself returning in the future. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Makers & ginger - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

See all

Lou's was mentioned in Esquire's Best Bars in America in 2007, it's a cute short blip of an article. I frequented Lou's back in the late 80s-2000s because the Do Dah Day (DDD) committee (and volunteers) always held their DDD after party at Lou's! Lou Zaden was always affable, accommodating, friendly, and efficient. I looked forward to the after party at Lou's! Plus, what's not to love about the sole combination package store/bar in the state! I'm happy to see Lou's is still thriving despite the passing of Lou in 2008. Known for his greeting of "hey baby!" a neon bar sign in the pub says exactly that beneath "Lou's Pub" and "Bud Light." It's small inside and the DDD after party would pack the house and pour out onto the concrete out front. Thank you, Lou, for all you did for DDD! read more

This place is a treasure. Not a me-too place. Totally unique in the best way. Lou may no longer reside up front behind the bar, but the faithful staff are infused with his spirit. Still miss "where you been baby" which is something I remember Lou saying to me like he remembered me from the last time which was sporadic since I lived ah hour north. The perfect neighborhood bar where for a little while I felt like a local. Best drinks and fantastic selection of bottled brews. Again, a one-off treasure that is a B'ham landmark for good reason. read more

Worst experience ever!! The bartender was so rude and kicked my friends and I out for stupid reasons

It's Lou's Pub what more could you ask for! Has the dive bar local feel. Along with being local, has regulars and surprises. Great place to grab a drink or a beer and buy some liquor too! Btw it also is a package store as well! A lot of great places to eat at around the place too! After your done eating drop back by Lou's it could be a totally different experience! read more

kicked us out because we were "suspicious" in the bathroom when in reality it was 3 of us trying to use the restroom. took our drinks and told us to get out. tried to explain and told they didn't care and we had to get out. don't go here. read more

steva was great. the other dude (i think his name is jesse) was weak. the owner seems crazy.

I've never been to a pub AND package store so coming here was an experience within itself. It's pretty much an upscale package store with a bartender and seating inside. The two workers there were very nice. I walk in, and I ask for a drink menu which they don't have. I guess they can just make anything and everything you want. Not good for me cause I need a list of choices to choose from LOL! I did look them on Yelp prior to going so I asked for a bushwhacker which they already have in like a slushie machine. I got the small size. It was much stronger than the ones I usually have. Think of a strong alcoholic Wendy's frosty. If you like strong, you should try it, but I'll personally stick to the ones they have at Moe's BBQ.....or the Wendy's frosty. read more

Wow! I cannot believe I have not reviewed this place until now (years later). My husband and I frequent Lou's quite a bit. Carpri, Jessie, Ms. O., Mike, Angel, and newest to the crew Janice are awesome. You can't find a better place in town that you can stop by and order a drink (anything you want they can make) and also take a bottle to go from their extensive selection of spirits. Even though Lou's is one of the oldest bars in Birmingham they make sure to keep up with latest craft cocktails. Make sure to add this place to your list of best bars in Birmingham!! read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - White Russian made by Jessie - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This goes down as the most magical travel experience of my life. I'm being serious. At face value, it looks like a typical dive bar. So we start drinking light beer. Then randomly, we notice there are several bottles of blantons for sale. Okay...things are getting interesting. It starts pouring down rain, so we continue drinking. Then a new bartender shows up, with a whole mixologist set up. So now I realize there is a cocktail bar vibe here. Many many drinks into the experience, the main guy/general manager/maybe owner forcibly cashes us out (and not because we were asleep on the bar). He said if we only had a weekend in Birmingham, he refused to let us spend our whole night in his bar. From there, he puts us in his minivan, and gives us a small tour of the city. And then takes us to the nicest restaurant in town, and gets us a table for dinner. All in an effort to make sure we loved Birmingham. That's the type of place Lou's is. If you're there, you become family. And they will make sure you have a good time. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

The old fashioned and service in this quaint little joint is UNREAL!!! Amazing selection of bourbon, craft cocktails, the usual stuff as well. They also have bushwhackers that are creamy and boozy!!!! If you LOVE knob creek try Janice's special old fashioned....she LOVES making it!!! read more

See all

I first visited Lou' s Pub in the late 80s. It was owned by a guy named Lou Zaden and was a cool hangout place just down the hill from my "then" apartment. The original "Lou" died in 2008, but this bar is still going strong. It is located in the Lakeview area which is "open carry" and is always "happening" on the weekends. Two of my favorite things about Lou' s is that it is open late and it has a cozy, family attitude. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - A package store and bar all in one!! - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

See all

Such a cool atmosphere. I love a good dive bar and this is exactly what that was. The waitress was the nicest person and very attentive. It's a liquor store and a bar in one. Will definitely be back! read more

Interesting mix but it works. 7 tables Plus a bar with stools. Interesting mix of characters. 2 TV's. Lots of food within walking distance. Definitely, worth a stop. We missed Mike and Ms. Oneida, but Stevea took great care of us! read more

Lou's is a Birmingham staple. If you have never been you have to go and experience it. It is a bar AND a package store. The bartenders are always super friendly. Drinks are good, and decently priced. Moving to the package store side of the business. WOW. Talk about over priced. I know Alabama doesn't make it easy to sell liquor here. However, 100%-250% Mark up on bottles is insane. Every time I walk in I am pleasantly surprised by the harder to find bottles I've been looking for. Then I find out that they are marked up 225%. I would suggest going once for an experience. I could not suggest enough against purchasing any bottles there. read more

What a really cool, small Birmingham bar. I can see why everyone loves this place! Came in for a mid-afternoon break from Slicefest. I have to admit the beautiful beacon (ok so maybe it was just a banner style sign on top of the roof) with the magical words Bushwacker was all I needed to see and I was all in. Easy set up as you walk through the door...three zones: Left: Full bar with bar stool seating the length of the building. Awesome bartenders, and no its not because they have Bushwackers (ok maybe a little...but not totally). Middle: Table style seating that even though they were kind of full...and there was a festival going on outdoors, there was still space available. Right: Package store. The length of the building lined with a huge variety to take home and practice your amateur mixology. Not sure about prices, as I wasn't buying anything this time....will report back soon! Cool place to hang out with friends. Check them out! read more

See all

This bar is a fun, place to go with friends for good cocktails at reasonable prices. The staff is knowledgable and nice. There's also a little board where you can buy drinks and leave them for someone to claim later! Love the bushwacker! read more

See all

Lou's Pub & Package Store is a Birmingham institution. It's a must see and must do hometown watering hole for the young and old alike. Nestled in Lakeview near most of the college bars, it's an unlikely find for those of us who have moved past the "sunrise committee" days of our college years. You can get a good drink, take a seat and enjoy some conversations with the bartenders, patrons or friends. While you're there, purchase some booze for later. Why not? It's a pub AND package store. Long story short, you'd be hard-pressed to find another place like Lou's Pub & Package Store. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Have been to this place a few times. It's usually uneventful and a nothing to brag about hole in the wall. Tonight was something different all together. It was decently busy for a Sunday evening at 6pm. The owner, Michael Carpri, was there attempting to help out by seating people. I was with another woman and two gay men. He told us he would get us drinks and we could sit at the bar. While waiting on our drinks, a table opened up and the people sitting there said we could take it. As we went to sit down, Michael noticed and YELLED at us that we would sit at the bar and to "do what I fucking told you". We were all so shocked. Sadly, we had already paid for our drinks so we decided to close our tabs and finish them. In the time it took to drink 1 beer we had multiple patrons come to us and apologize for the OWNERS behavior. The staff was also visibly tense. At some point we noticed Michael go outside. He did not return while we were there. I would highly suggest spending your hard earned money somewhere you won't be screamed at by the owner. read more

I first learned about Lou's when I turned 21 and was researching what bars to check out in Birmingham. I noticed Lou's had been named one of the "Best Bars in America" by Esquire and I knew I had to try it! Lou's is by far one of my favorite bars in Birmingham. The thing that keeps me going back is the laid back atmosphere, and of course, the drinks. The bartenders are very good at what they do and will make sure that you leave happy! This is a really small bar, but there's somehow always a table open, which just reinforces my theory that this place is somehow magical. Be sure to ask to play the dice game when you visit...you won't have much of a chance at winning, but it has been done (or so I've been told). read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Happy Saturday! - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

See all

I have been going to Lou's for a while. I have to say for the most part I enjoy being there. However, Its really upsetting when you sit at the bar and you over hear the bartender gossiping about you. This is the same sow that smiles in my face and appears always happy to see you. I think all the bartender's are very nice and welcoming. However, there is one that really needs to check herself. The next time I hear her gossiping about me while I am in ear shot of her my friend, I am going to have some very choice words for you. So Mike you need to check your folks because the next time I hear her saying anything about me while I am a paying customer at your bar and paying a gratuity, it is not going to go over so well my friend. At least wait until we leave, that is what I do. Just want to give you a heads up. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store was truly a special find. I was in Birmingham for the sole purpose is seeing Birmingham. I found out, as I spoke to the locals, that is unheard of. I was glad to be the 'first' for many locals. I spent time here with Ms. Oneita and Mr. Mike. She turned me on to well-priced and rare 12 year Weller. I could totally become a regular here. Lou's is the ONLY bar that has a package store in the whole state of Alabama. That's a cool thing. It's been continually operating for 30 years. Go in and spend some time and tell em Kim from Portland sent ya! read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Me and Ms. Oneita. Only pub and package store in the entire state of AL. Thanks guys!! - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

What a cool place. I'm going to become a regular. It is pretty close quarters in here but in a good way. It has a classic feel, with a well stocked bar complete with a slushy machine. They really took their time when they were deciding what to put I. Here alcohol wise. They have all of the classic ingredients for almost any standard cocktail you can think of. The bar staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. You can even purchase alcohol here at a very fair price to take home with you. Definitely stop in here. It is a hidden gem in lakeview read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Jeffersons Kentucky mule :) - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

The first time walking in, you think you're in a package store on the outskirts of the party scene in Lakeview. But it's also a bar! It's a quieter spot to grab a few good drinks before moving the party down the street. My first visit, the bartender mixed up the bar tabs and was very rude to me when I pointed it out. She was so worked up about it she just told me to leave and refused payment. However, the drinks were well-made and it's a good spot if you're looking for a more relaxed scene that's also close to a nightlife spot in the city. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Nice little bar and package store close to downtown Birmingham. Very, very, verrrry friendly staff. Overly so for an ol' Yankee like me, but most places totally ignore you, so it was a nice change of pace. Both I and my companion ordered an old fashion (make with Maker's Mark). Frankie made the first one, a different bartender made the second. I must admit, Frankie's was better, so if you order an old fashion, make sure Frankie makes it. It was a bit pricey (4 old fashions ran me $28), but the place has a nice vibe. read more

Best bar in Bham hands down. It's always full of great people both at the bar and behind it. A truly unique bar, the likes of which most places can only dream and strive to be like. The service and atmosphere are impeccable and just what you are looking for. read more

I can not clap enough between each of these words. GET TO LOU'S. This place is so so cool.. especially for us who identify with the LGBTQ+ community. My partner and I were visiting Bham for her big 30th celebration and a bartender at another bar suggested Lou's. We have been to Birmingham a few times now and always seem to fall further in love with the area, this place really sealed the deal for us. Not only is it an incredible experience due to the ambiance and more but the staff there is so kind. Ya know how a lot of times little "dive bars" like this are nichey and if you aren't a regular you're kind of chopped meat to the patrons and the staff.. well not this place, you become part of the family. If you haven't been and you're not a prude this is a must. It is near some college type bars (again no hate on that, jut outgrew that scene a few years back) but it seems everyone knows their place on each side of the street! read more

Friend signed her receipt for two drinks, didn't tip for two beers in a can, was handed the receipt back and told it wasn't good enough by the big guy with the ponytail, that they were, "busting their asses." She felt bad, apologized and left $3.00. I went back later and tried to speak with another bartender and asked to speak to a a manager and was told they didn't have time for it. Told they didn't care. Won't ever go to Lou's again! read more

Lou's pub is a great bar the staff there is so friendly and they have an amazing selection of whiskeys and bourbons. They also have bush wackers of you want something cool and refreshing to drink. Definitely visit on Wednesday and Sunday when it's "church night" they have specialty cocktails that you normally would not think of. It's truly a one of a kind place. read more

I love this place! The owner and bartenders are great!!! Come here, often. Fun place with a great atmosphere. Talk to the bartenders and let them create your cocktail. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

How is it I have not reviewed Lou's yet? This review goes back 10 years.... many beers and bushwackers ago I found Lous. Great spot! At first it can be a bit intimidating especially when "hey baby" the familiar words from Lou himself filled the bar welcoming regulars. Carpri has done a great job keeping the comfortable charm alive. Mike and O are what keeps me coming back! Bartenders, listeners, entertainers extraordinaire. Great "hey baby" tradition in the Ham! read more

Lou's is one of my favorite bars in town! You know you can go in for a cold beer, and some friendly faces any day of the week. I have been a customer of Lou's pub for about 4 years now and have never been disappointed with my visits. It's kind of like going to visit your family, super sweet bartenders who remember things about you and your life, and what your favorite drink is. Mike the owner is one of the best guys around, would give you the shirt off of his back. I can't say enough good things about the people who work here, but there is more to it then that. The drinks are fabulous, you can get an miller high life, add tang (delicious), a famous bushwhacker, or tell them a flavor and spirit you like and they will make you something delicious. They sell cigars and cigarettes for your convenience. It is also a fully stocked package store! The only bar/package store left in Birmingham. Go have a beer at the bar, and buy some to take home with you! If you have never been to Lou's Package, GO! You will not be disappointed. read more

Can't say I love Lou's, but I'd feel bad giving it less than 3 stars. I mean, I get the sense that they're trying at least. It's got to be the brightest bar I've ever been in. That's not to say I enjoy the really dark bars, but they should really tone down those fluorescent lights. As the name implies, they are also a package store, but I don't see how they compete with the ABC down the street. The older bartender dude will make a point to tell you at least one dirty joke before you leave. Also, he thought it was weird that I kept ordering different beers instead of just getting the same thing every time. Definitely a bar for an older generation than myself. The main problem is that they never have drink specials, so you can bet it'll usually be a sparse crowd. read more

I've gone to Lou's for many years and tonight is the first time I was shocked by the rudeness of the owner Mike. He literally yelled at myself and 3 other friends and told us to "do as we are fucking told". The whole place was silent when he said it. The bartenders apologized to us, even other patrons came up to us and apologized. I have NEVER felt so disrespected in my entire life and will NEVER be a patron again. Mike, I hope you don't treat other guests this way. read more

Lou's is a sunny place for shady people in the best sense of the phrase. Populated largely by a post undergrad crowd and service industry people, Lou's is unlike the other lake view bars. Bartenders there are friendly and knowledgable and their selection of libations is expansive - able to satisfy those craving light beers and 'bushwackers' or those looking for a more esoteric Italian digestif. Wednesday's and Sunday's are 'Churchnight' in which Lou's hosts a guest bartender offering a unique cocktail menu that changes monthly. If you're looking for a place to drink while still being able to hold a conversation this is the place for you. read more

Neat Little bar. The bartenders are attentive and are glad to let you sample a new brew or liquor. The concept is different, it's a pub, but also a package beer and liquor store. If you want food, Michael will take your order and go next door to Rags Bistro to place and then deliver it to you. Esquire Magazine knows it's stuff. read more

Lou's Pub & Package Store - Pubs Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

I have going to Lou's since opening day! In fact, I met my husband there in about 1988. It's a wonderful place with lots of memories! It has great cocktails and a decent wine list plus, it's a package store. What more could you ask for? I know that Lou and Mama are watching over the place for sure!! read more

Sitting down at this bar felt like putting on the right pair of jeans, or easing into that spot on the couch that knows and understands me. I can definitely see myself becoming a regular here. I don't think I've ever seen a bar and package store operating as one - in concert. The bartenders I met tonight, Ms. O and Mike, were awesome and super welcoming - which means so much when you're new in town and trying to figure things out. It's not a flashy, glamorous place to see and be seen, it's a neighborhood spot that's been around longer than I've been alive. Wood accents, wallpaper, classic rock and well-made drinks - what more could you ask for?! Sidenote: I feel like if Niki's West served liquor, this could be its bar. (Can we please make that happen, BTW?) read more